Expert: Roland Finston - 1/27/2012

Question
My wife was driving and the muffler started dragging.  I had it towed to the shop and I was told that because the car has two mufflers, and since only the dealer sold replacements, that it would cost approximately $1,000 to for one and 1,300 for both.  Is this right??

Answer
Hi Mel,
It appears to me from the manual that the exhaust system of the Pacifica typically has a catalytic converter, a muffler, and finally a resonator/tail pipe unit. I would believe that the dragging was due to a hanger(s) that supports the system having broken. But exactly how much each of the 3 important units was damaged would depend upon what the inspection reveals. I would believe that there are other sources for replacement than the dealer parts counter. I don't know which sort of shop (dealer/independent) you are at, but I would call around to independent (non-franchise) local muffler shops and make inquiry about what you were told. I suspect you will find a lower estimate than what you have been told. It may well be that only one part of the sytstem (or even none!) needs total replacement and so getting another shop to look at the vehicle may well be worth it. Don't go to a nationwide franchise place or a dealer but rather an independent local muffler shop. Maybe you could hire them to go and inspect the vehicle at the present shop to avoid an unnecessary second tow. Or you can request that the present shop temporarily re-attach the system so that the vehicle can be driven safely to another shop for a second opinion.  The catalytic converter is the most expensive part and it is located close to the engine. It may not have been damaged at all or might have minor damage that could be welded, for example. You need a second opinion from what you have already been told.
Roland